Due to a rockfall, the interior of the Staple Bend Tunnel is closed. The trail is still open. From the Mineral Point Trailhead, visitors can bypass the tunnel, via a path around the right side of the tunnel structure.
Expert Verdict & Insider Tips
If you are planning a trip to Pennsylvania, visiting Allegheny Portage Railroad National Historic Site should definitely be on your list. This beautiful national historic site is perfect for those who want to escape the crowds and enjoy the outdoors. Whether you have just a few hours or a whole weekend, there is plenty to explore.
About Allegheny Portage Railroad National Historic Site
Allegheny Portage Railroad National Historic Site is a national historic site located in Pennsylvania. The park is located in Cambria County, PA, and is at the summit of the Allegheny Mountains. Therefore, the park often takes on winter extremes. If planning on traveling from a long distance, please contact the park beforehand to ensure that the facilities are open. Please consult weather forecasts to ensure conditions are safe to travel in. Spring, summer, and fall are generally uneventful, but severe thunderstorms can occur.
The park is located just off U.S. Route 22 approximately 12 miles west of Altoona and 10 miles east of Ebensburg. Take the Gallitzin Exit and turn right, following the signs. Visitors prior to 1992 accessed the park in other ways, but the Gallitzin Exit of US Route 22 is the way to access the visitor center and historic area.
💰 Entrance Fees & Passes
Entry to Allegheny Portage Railroad is completely free. There are no general entrance fees or vehicle passes required to access this park unit.
🥾 Things to Do
Allegheny Portage Railroad National Historic Site offers visitors a diverse selection of outdoor experiences. You can participate in a wide array of activities, most notably Arts and Culture, Cultural Demonstrations, Guided Tours, Self-Guided Tours - Walking, and 9 other recreational activities, depending on the season and weather conditions. Path options exist for both casual strollers and expert backcountry adventurers.
📦 Recommended Gear & Packing Checklist
Custom items selected for activities at Allegheny Portage Railroad
📋 Visitor Planning Tips for Allegheny Portage Railroad
- →Beat the Crowds: Arrive at the main gates or trailheads of Allegheny Portage Railroad before 8:00 AM. Parking spaces at popular locations fill up extremely fast, especially during warm peak season weekends.
- →Monitor Active Alerts: There are currently 1 active alerts for Allegheny Portage Railroad. Keep an eye on the alert notifications at the top of this guide for crucial information regarding closures or safety issues.
- →Leave No Trace: Help protect the delicate ecosystems of Allegheny Portage Railroad. Stay on marked trails, pack out all of your waste, and keep a respectful distance from wildlife.
The first railroad to cross the Allegheny Mountains, the Allegheny Portage Railroad was the final piece of the Pennsylvania Main Line Canal. "The Portage" opened in 1834, marking the first time that there was one, direct route between Philadelphia and Pittsburgh. All things to all people, it served merchants, passengers, slaves in pursuit of freedom, and soldiers from the Mexican War.
Seasonal Visitor Guides
Frequently Asked Questions about Allegheny Portage Railroad
About the Author
James R. Mitchell
Founder & Lead Writer — National Park Data
James has visited all 63 designated US national parks and has been writing about outdoor travel for over 12 years. He spent 8 years as a wilderness guide in the Rocky Mountains before founding National Park Data to help visitors plan better, safer, and more enjoyable park trips.
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